OVERVIEW: The 3M Foundation supports a wide range of conservation projects in communities in which the company has a business presence.

IP TAKE: The 3M Foundation supports national, regional, and local conservation projects. Applicants should read 3M’s website often as it’s environmental conservation work is increasing and evolving.

PROFILE: The 3M established its foundation in 1953, which makes it “one of the first companies to establish a foundation.” The 3M Foundation commits its grantmaking to improving the quality of life for underserved populations, the environment, helping underrepresented children gain access to youth development programs, and providing access to art opportunities.

The foundation’s environmental grants focus on the sustainable management and maintenance of at-risk habitats, improving the lives of indigenous peoples “through green development and the promotion of green livelihoods; and increasing environmental learning activities for children.” The 3M Foundation’s environmental and conservation grants support a range of activities, such as closing the loop between municipalities and recycling prgorams.

Most of the 3M Foundation’s environmental grants range from $5,000 to $50,000. The foundation awards grants to organizations located in areas in which 3M has a business presence. Past grantees also include the Friends of the Mississippi River’s land conservation and stewardship project and the National Wildlife Federation’s Monarch Heroes program. To learn more about the types of organizations 3M supports and at what level, download its environmental grants list.

The 3M Foundation does not accept unsolicited grant applications or requests for funding from organizations located in St. Paul, Minnesota and Austin, Texas. Applicants located in other states must direct their funding requests to their local 3M office.